This bill aims to strengthen parental rights regarding the health care and well-being of minor children in Florida. It amends several sections of the Florida Statutes, including s. 384.30, which now requires parental consent for a minor's treatment for sexually transmissible diseases, while allowing examination without consent. Additionally, it mandates that school districts provide parents with information before administering any mental health or health screening questionnaires to students, ensuring parents have the opportunity to opt their children out of participation. The bill also introduces the requirement for parental consent for the use of biofeedback devices on minors, defining such devices and stipulating that results must be shared with parents and treated as confidential medical records.

Furthermore, the bill revises existing provisions regarding parental rights, emphasizing the right to make health care decisions for their children, access medical records, and consent to the creation of DNA records. It outlines specific exceptions to these rights, such as in cases of criminal investigations or when a child is in the custody of the Department of Children and Families. The bill also clarifies that health care practitioners must obtain written parental consent before providing services to minors, with certain emergency exceptions. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1288 c1: 384.30
S 1288 c2: 384.30, 1001.42